There are different types of pimples: the closed comedones, the open comedones (blackheads) , the papules (inflammatory red pimples without pus), the pustules (presence of pus), the nodules (painful pimples), the cysts (deep painful subcutaneous lesions). Sometimes unsightly, it is common for people prone to acne pimples to seek ways to get rid of them quickly. Here are some tips in this regard.
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How to quickly get rid of a pimple on the face?
Summary
- 1. Apply ice to the pimple
- 2. Apply a treatment containing salicylic acid
- 3. Resort to tea tree essential oil
- What about toothpaste?
- Sources
Published August 9, 2022,
updated on June 20, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
8 min read
1. Apply ice to the pimple.
The first step to soothe a painful pimple is to apply ice. Wrap a bit of ice in a cloth and press it onto the inflamed area for 3 to 4 minutes. Repeat this process several times throughout the day to calm the skin and reduce swelling.
2. Apply a treatment containing salicylic acid.
Thesalicylic acid is abeta-hydroxy acid (B.H.A.) known for itskeratolytic action, thus promoting the removal of dead skin cells (desquamation).
It also possesses astringent, regenerative, and antiseptic properties. The salicylic acid prevents the growth and proliferation of fungi, viruses, and bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes, a microorganism responsible for the inflammatory reactions of acne.
Its soothing virtues allow it to combat skin inflammation. Indeed, salicylic acid plays a role in the arachidonic acid cascade and inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins E2, molecules responsible for inflammatory and painful effects.
Our local blemish serum is concentrated at 2% salicylic acid. It is also enriched with zinc (1%), a sebum-regulating and antimicrobial trace element. It is applied locally, in small amounts. Generally, one drop is enough for a single pimple. The first results will be observable after three days. We recommend applying this product only in the evening.
3. Resort to tea tree essential oil.
Thetea tree essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the tree Melaleuca alternifolia, native to Australia. According to the I.N.C.I. classification, it is named as "Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil".
When it is present at a concentration of 1% or more in a skincare product, the tea tree essential oil has demonstrated excellent bactericidal properties. Thus, it helps to limit the proliferation of microorganisms involved in acne such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Moreover, it regulates sebum production and mattifies oily skin that tends to shine. This sebum-regulating action also helps to prevent pore obstruction and therefore the appearance of blackheads.
A study has revealed that a gel containing 5% tea tree essential oil proved to be as effective in reducing pimples as a lotion containing 5% benzoyl peroxide, a common acne medication. The use of tea tree essential oil also resulted in fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide.
However, it is important to note that tea tree essential oil is very potent and can cause redness and irritation when applied directly to the skin. For this reason, it should be diluted in a carrier oil.
How to use tea tree essential oil for dealing with pimples?
Mix a drop of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and apply it directly to the pimples. Repeat this process 1 to 2 times per day, as needed.
What about toothpaste?
Many people praise theapplication of toothpaste directly on acne spots. Indeed, this belief is based on the fact that toothpaste contains drying elements (alcohol, baking soda...) and antibacterial agents (formerly, triclosan) in its formula.
However, toothpastes typically have a basic pH, unlike skin, which has an acidic pH. Therefore, thetopical application of toothpaste disrupts the skin's pH, which sensitizes the skin. Furthermore, it is important to note that toothpastes were formulated for oral use, not for topical application. The topical application of toothpaste could therefore be the cause of skin reactions, such as irritations or even allergies (contact dermatitis).
A study conducted by a dermatologist has indeed shown that the use of toothpaste in some women causes acne around the mouth.
The beneficial effects of toothpaste on acne pimples have not been proven in scientific literature. On the contrary, it could sensitize your skin and exacerbate the existing problem. Therefore, the use of toothpaste for acne pimples is discouraged.
Note : An effective and natural way to dry out a pimple is toapply a "bandage" ofgreen clay paste directly on the pimple and leave it on overnight.
Sources:
SAUNDERS M. A. Fluoride Toothpastes: A Cause of Acne-like Eruptions. Archives of Dermatological Research (1975).
BARNETSON R. S. & al. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. The Medical Journal of Australia (1990).
CARSON C. F. & et al. Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clinical Microbiology Reviews (2006).
HAMMER K. A. Treatment of acne with tea tree oil (melaleuca) products: A review of efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action. Journal Of Antimicrobial Agents (2014).
ARIF T.Salicylic Acid as a Peeling Agent: A Comprehensive Review.Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology(2015).
VAN VUUREN S. & al. Commercial essential oils as potential antimicrobials to treat skin diseases. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2017).
KOCA U. & al. Tea tree oil and its application in aromatherapy. Current Perspectives on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (2018).
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